A message posted on the Grafton College Facebook page said teachers had been “overwhelmed” by the level of support from the students.

“Thank you so much for all your kind words, hugs and tears,” it read.

“We’re all in shock at the sudden closure of the school.”

Students have said that they paid fees of up to 2,000 euro to study at the college.

It’s expected that they will be able to finish their courses at other colleges.

In a statement Marketing English In Ireland (MEI), which represents accredited English-language colleges in Ireland, said management of Grafton College had informed them of trading difficulties at the college and the likely impact on students.

In the event of a closure of an MEI school, it is common practice for other MEI schools to offer places to displaced students to ensure they can complete their studies.

“Arrangements will be put in place by MEI to ensure all students are enabled to complete their studies,” the statement read.

Mr Hassey added that the closure reinforced the need for legislation to protect the interests of both teachers and students in the highly-profitable English language sector.